This Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole is a classic comfort dish that brings together seasoned ground beef, creamy vegetables, and a rich cheddar cheese layer, all topped with crispy golden tater tots. It’s a family-friendly meal that’s satisfying, budget-conscious, and incredibly easy to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners and casual gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty, filling, and satisfying for all ages
• Combines creamy, cheesy, and crispy textures
• Uses simple and affordable ingredients
• One-dish meal that’s easy to assemble and bake
• Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or meal prep
• Customizable with different vegetables or proteins
• Freezer-friendly for future meals
• Comfort food at its best—warm and indulgent
• Kid-approved and loved by picky eaters
• Requires minimal prep and clean-up

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef
• Onion (diced)
• Frozen mixed vegetables (corn, green beans, carrots)
• Cream of mushroom soup
• Sour cream
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper
• Frozen tater tots

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until browned and fully cooked. Drain off any excess fat.
3. Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
4. Spread the beef mixture evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
5. Arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer over the top of the beef mixture.
6. Bake the casserole uncovered for 35–40 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden and crispy.
7. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
8. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, until the cheese is fully melted.
9. Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 40–45 minutes
Total time: 55–60 minutes

Variations

• Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version
• Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra veggies
• Top with jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicy twist
• Make it gluten-free by using a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup
• Use cream of chicken or cheddar soup for a different flavor
• Swap cheddar for mozzarella or pepper jack for a different cheese profile
• Add a crispy topping of crushed potato chips or French fried onions in the last 5 minutes of baking

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat:

• In the oven: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15–20 minutes.
• In the microwave: Reheat individual portions on high for 1–2 minutes, until heated through.

For longer storage, the casserole can be frozen (baked or unbaked) for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?

Yes, just lightly steam or sauté them first to ensure they’re tender by the end of baking.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?

You can substitute with cream of chicken soup or make a homemade béchamel sauce.

Do the tater tots need to be thawed before baking?

No, add them frozen directly to the top of the casserole for best results.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes. You can freeze it before or after baking. If freezing unbaked, add 10–15 minutes to the bake time.

How do I know when the casserole is done?

The tater tots should be golden and crispy, and the filling should be bubbling.

Can I use different cheeses?

Yes, try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a spicy blend like pepper jack for variety.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Very much so—most children enjoy the cheesy, crispy texture and mild flavor.

Can I add seasoning to the beef?

Yes, you can add garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or a dash of Worcestershire sauce for added depth.

What should I serve with this casserole?

It pairs well with a fresh green salad, steamed broccoli, or coleslaw to balance the richness.

Conclusion

Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole with Ground Beef is the ultimate comfort food—easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and packed with creamy, cheesy, crispy goodness. Whether you’re cooking for a family meal, potluck, or make-ahead dinner, this classic casserole delivers on flavor and convenience. Keep it simple or dress it up with your favorite ingredients—it’s a dish that never goes out of style.

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